She said: “Last year more than 5,000 presents were pledged by generous people and businesses and we are hoping for a similar response this year.

“Although because of the way Christmas falls this year we are starting much earlier.

“My colleagues and I all give our time freely to make sure this appeal meets the needs of all these youngsters, it is a pleasure to be involved in such a worthwhile project.

“The collection centres which include local businesses as well as council locations are also a vital part of the project and a big thank goes to them for their support.

“This year we have a number of local schools making up hampers for the older teenagers who live alone and this is such a great project for them to understand not everyone can celebrate Christmas in a family home.”